firm footing

USAGE SUMMARY

"firm footing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a sturdy foundation for an endeavor or situation, or to signify a strong embodiment of an idea or concept. Example: After finding a firm footing in the industry, she was able to become an influential figure in her field.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

By the time the Portuguese arrived in the early 16th century, Islam had a firm footing.

Cornell University

On the plus side, though, the shares are likely to remain on a firm footing.

Independent

At the time, many had viewed the reports as evidence that the recovery was finally on a firm footing.

Independent

Despite being below 50 for the second consecutive month, the HSBC index indicated that China's economy remained on a firm footing.

The New York Times

He contends that by using such transformations we can place all deduction on a firm footing.

SEP

Indeed, relations between Washington and Prague are otherwise on a firm footing.

Vice

I pray that this election will allow our country to move forward on a firm footing.

Huffington Post

But I can't say that the nether region between the worlds is leaving me with any sense of a firm footing.

Vice

New alliances, such as the Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases, may provide an opportunity for concerted action to put the evidence base for treatment and control of NCDs in developing countries on a firm footing.

Globalization and Health

Musically, Cray remains on firm footing.

The New Yorker

But the men underneath were not on firm footing.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "firm footing" to describe situations where stability or a solid foundation is essential for success or progress. It is applicable in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "firm footing" when describing something that is merely adequate or average. The phrase implies a significant degree of stability and strength, so it should be reserved for situations where those qualities are genuinely present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm footing" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as the object of a preposition (e.g., "on a firm footing"). It describes a state of stability or security, representing a solid foundation upon which something can develop or thrive. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "firm footing" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a state of stability or security. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for a variety of contexts, particularly in news, academic, and business writing. The phrase effectively communicates assurance and confidence. While several alternatives exist, such as ""solid foundation"" and ""stable base"", "firm footing" remains a versatile and widely recognized expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

firm foundation

A more direct synonym, reinforcing the idea of a reliable and solid support.

reliable footing

Stresses the dependability of the established base or condition.

solid foundation

Replaces "footing" with "foundation", emphasizing the foundational aspect of stability.

solid ground

Uses "ground" to emphasize a safe and dependable situation or starting point.

steady ground

Emphasizes the reliability and consistency of the support or base.

stable base

Uses "base" instead of "footing", suggesting a secure and steady platform.

secure position

Shifts the focus to the state of being secure rather than the foundation itself.

sound basis

Highlights the reasonableness and reliability of the underlying support.

strong foothold

Emphasizes the initial grasp or advantage gained to ensure stability.

established position

Focuses on the result of having attained security and stability.

FAQs

How can I use "firm footing" in a sentence?

You can use "firm footing" to describe a situation or endeavor that is stable and well-established. For example, "The company is now on "firm footing" after overcoming its initial financial challenges".

What is a good alternative to "firm footing"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "solid foundation", "stable base", or "secure position".

Is it appropriate to use "firm footing" in formal writing?

Yes, "firm footing" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in business, academic, and journalistic contexts. It conveys a sense of stability and reliability that is often valued in these settings.

What does it mean to say something is "on firm footing"?

To say something is "on "firm footing"" means it is stable, secure, and likely to succeed. It suggests a solid foundation has been established, providing confidence and assurance.